Page:The tale of Balen (IA taleofbalen00swin).pdf/39

 So spake he ere they parted, nor Took shame or fear to counsellor, As one whom none laid ambush for; And wist not how Sir Launceor, The wild king's son of Ireland, hot And high in wrath to know that one Stood higher in fame before the sun, Even Balen, since the sword was won, Drew nigh from Camelot.

For thence, in heat of hate and pride, As one that man might bid not bide, He craved the high king's grace to ride On quest of Balen far and wide And wreak the wrong his wrath had wrought. 'Yea,' Arthur said, 'for such despite Was done me never in my sight As this thine hand shall now requite If trust avail us aught.'